Here’s some motivation to kick you into gear on one of the most common New Year’s resolutions: scientists have found a physical path showing how exercise supports memory and helps prevent Parkinson’s. It may seem obvious since the benefits of exercise have been extolled forever, but seeing the actual physical results give scientists a new line of research to help people.
Here’s what’s happening: when you exercise, you turn on some genes that stimulate production of a brain protecting molecule called DJ-1. DJ-1 helps to remove abnormal proteins, thus it helps to keep your brain healthy.
While previous studies showed exercise as being physically valuable to Parkinson’s patients, helping them to keep control of their bodies longer, this research into a physical benefit for the brain is new. On the other hand, some of the more severe Parkinson’s patients may not get this benefit since they are missing the genes for DJ-1 (these patients often show Parkinson’s symptoms younger). However, further research may come up with a treatment based on DJ-1 to help everyone.
Ideally, you want to be exercising everyday in a way that raises your heart beat for 20-30 minutes. If that’s not possible, any physical activity is better than nothing. A walk, a more physical chore, or even some sit and be fit exercises can get you started.
Ease some of the barriers to exercise by taking care of your body. Try Body RLF for a natural, drug-free way to help ease aches and pains (it contains herbs and nutrients that help the body to heal after exercise) or spot treat a sore muscle with Dakota Muscle Relief.
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